Wenger says Podolski - who has scored 43 times in 95 appearances for Germany - will provide high-quality support for the Gunners captain.

“[He was on our radar] for a long time,” he told Arsenal Player. “He is a versatile striker - he can play through the middle, behind the striker, up front, on the left and on the right.

“That's what we like, and he can score goals as well. How many times have we been accused this season of being too reliant on Robin van Persie? He can score goals and provide, and he is the class that we want.

“He can fit with Robin van Persie through the middle or on the sides. That is for sure. That was an important part of the decision making [about signing him].”